I'm adding this as a separate destination hike involving the Florida Canyon trail because this trail, in my opinion, is the best one in Tucson and because the trip to McCleary Peak provides an alternative to the ever-crowded (but nonetheless excellent) Mt. Wrightson. Bag this infrequently visited summit and I promise you will not see a soul.
I would suggest you refer to the summary of the Florida Canyon trail provided by whereeveriroam in his description of Mt. Wrightson via Florida Canyon Trail to the Florida Saddle. His description is excellent and I have nothing to add.
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From the wonderful Florida Saddle, hang a right on the Crest Trail towards the Armour Spring Trail. This trail continues along through the wonderful pine forests of the upper reaches of the Santa Ritas. After about 0.3 miles you come to a signed intersection pointing towards the Armour Spring Trail. Take this spur trail for roughly 0.4 miles. Along the way the forest breaks periodically to allow you amazing views down the canyon and far out and over Tucson. This is the first real glimpse of just how far you've climbed...wow. About 0.2 miles into this trail there is an unsigned split in the trail - stay to your left here. After a total of about 0.4 miles on the Armour Spring Trail you come to an unmarked saddle and the trail swings away to your left. There is a rocky ridgeline to your right and up above lies McCleary Peak. Look for a fairly large cairn here a few feet off the trail, adjacent to a large fallen tree. This area has clearly served as a campsite in the past.
Anyway, the cairn here marks the takeoff of the informal rough trail that scratches its way to McCleary Peak. The trail is not a formal one, but nonetheless, it is not that hard to follow. Keep an eye out for cairns and keep on climbing. You can basically climb up to any summit you want or follow the trail all the way out. The views are really the same... absolutely incredible. Enjoy this little-known peak, my favorite local hike.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
Permit $$
None
Coronado Forest MVUMs are rarely necessary to review unless mentioned in the description or directions Coronado Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs)
Directions
Road
FR / Dirt Road / Gravel - Car Okay
To hike From Tucson take 1-19 south, get off exit 63 (Continental). Head east and then take right onto White House Road. Follow this paved road 5-6 miles to a junction with a large dirt road (Box Canyon Road, FR 62), it'll be on your left. Head on this road about 1/4 mile and look for the signed turn-off to Florida Work Center (a.k.a. Santa Rita Experimental Range), this will be FR 62A. Proceed to the gate at the end of the road, parking will be to your left just in front of the gate.
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